Police rubbish claims of 23 bodies stolen from Mpumalanga morgue

Police rubbish claims of 23 bodies stolen from Mpumalanga morgue! The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has categorically denied circulating rumors of stolen bodies from a mortuary in the province and a hijacking near the Mananga border.

The allegations, according to provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, are baseless and misleading.

Unfounded Allegations of Stolen Bodies

Brigadier Mdhluli addressed claims that 23 bodies were allegedly stolen from a mortuary in Barberton.

“The office of the provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga would like to categorically state that these claims are false and have no basis in reality. There are no reports or incidents of bodies being stolen from any mortuary in Barberton or anywhere else in the province,” Mdhluli clarified.

The rumors have sparked confusion and concern among the public, prompting a swift response from the authorities to dispel the misinformation.

Police

Fabricated Hijacking Reports

In addition to the mortuary allegations, there were reports of a hijacking incident involving a supposed Mozambican suspect armed with an AK-47 near the Mananga border post with Eswatini.

“The SAPS in Mpumalanga would also like to clarify that these reports are entirely fabricated and untrue. There are no such incidents reported to the SAPS in Mpumalanga,” Mdhluli emphasized.

The alleged hijacking incident, much like the mortuary claims, has been discredited as false information with no evidence to support the narrative.

Warning Against the Spread of False Information

Acting provincial commissioner of Mpumalanga SAPS, Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi, issued a stern warning against the dissemination of unverified claims.

“Spreading false information can lead to unnecessary panic and fear in the community. We urge the public to report any suspicious activity or crimes to the SAPS so that we can investigate and take appropriate action,” Mkhwanazi stated.

He emphasized that false information not only wastes police resources but also undermines public trust in law enforcement and creates undue anxiety within communities.

The Impact of False Claims

The circulation of these unverified reports highlights the dangers of misinformation in today’s fast-paced digital age. False allegations, such as the stolen bodies and hijacking, can quickly gain traction, particularly on social media platforms, where they may be shared widely without verification.

Authorities have urged residents to refrain from sharing unverified information and instead rely on official channels for accurate updates on crime and safety matters.

Encouraging Community Cooperation

The SAPS has reiterated the importance of community cooperation in maintaining law and order. Public vigilance and accurate reporting of suspicious activities are vital in helping law enforcement address legitimate safety concerns effectively.

“By working together, we can ensure a safer environment for everyone. It is important that the public remains alert but also discerning when it comes to the information they choose to believe and share,” Mdhluli added.

Strengthening Public Trust

This incident underscores the importance of transparent communication between law enforcement and the community. By promptly addressing and debunking false claims, the SAPS aims to reassure the public of its commitment to maintaining safety and order in Mpumalanga.

Official Channels for Reporting and Updates

The SAPS has urged the public to use official communication channels for reporting crimes and accessing updates about safety concerns. Citizens are encouraged to report any legitimate incidents to their nearest police station or through the SAPS emergency number.

Conclusion

The false claims of stolen bodies and hijacking in Mpumalanga highlight the challenges law enforcement faces in combating misinformation. The SAPS has taken a firm stand against these rumors, providing clear and authoritative statements to quell public fears.

With the support and cooperation of the community, the SAPS remains dedicated to addressing real safety concerns while ensuring that false narratives do not distract from its mission of protecting the public. As the province moves forward, the emphasis remains on accurate reporting, mutual trust, and collaborative efforts to uphold safety and security for all.

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